By skillfully blending case studies, maps, charts, and his own mastery of the subject, Mitchell has managed to convey the basics of Irish genealogical research in scarcely sixty pages. Following introductory chapters on the background to research on the American side, the author describes the nature and uses of all significant record sources in Ireland, including but not limited to civil and parish registers, gravestone inscriptions, wills, the Griffith's Valuation, tithe books, the 1901 and 1911 censuses, newspapers, hearth money rolls, the registry of deeds, estate records, and ordnance survey memoirs. Another important chapter explains the differences between the various administrative divisions of Ireland, knowledge of which is critical in tracking down all available records on Irish ancestors. The Pocket Guide concludes with lists of all major Irish record offices and heritage centers, providing addresses and phone numbers, hours of operation, contact persons, and major record holdings. In short, if you need a handy road map to genealogical research in Ireland, look no further.
